A driver suspected of striking and totaling a Border Patrol vehicle in southeastern Los Angeles County Friday was arrested, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
The department issued a statement on social media Friday saying, “Today in Bell and Maywood, CA, Border Patrol vehicles were violently targeted during lawful operations.
“On Atlantic Blvd, one vehicle was rammed and had its tires slashed. On Slauson Ave, a civilian struck a federal vehicle, totaling it. The driver was arrested for suspicion of vehicular assault as a mob formed and slashed additional tires,” the statement said.
“LAPD, LAFD, OFO teams, and Border Patrol Special Operations responded and restored order. One suspect is in custody and will be presented to U.S. Attorney’s Office for criminal prosecution.”
Federal agents used chemical irritants or smoke bombs against a small group of protesters in Maywood following reports of a federal immigration enforcement operation, causing the crowd to disperse rapidly amid the chaos, with many shouting in defiance.
Tensions escalated after chemical irritants and smoke devices were deployed. At one point, a protester was seen kicking a canister back toward federal agents, ABC7 reported.
Multiple SUVs, suspected to be driven by federal agents, halted on Slauson Avenue near Alamao Avenue, approximately one block from the site of the chemical agents’ deployment.
Minutes earlier, a protest on Atlantic Avenue in Bell escalated, according to ABC7.
Approximately 100 people gathered following an immigration operation in the area. Video footage captured individuals throwing rocks and bottles at passing vehicles.
The agency responsible for the immigration operation is unclear, as the vehicles were unmarked, and the officers did not wear identifiable uniforms.